MIT engineers have developed a groundbreaking propulsion system that combines the power and speed of conventional chemical thrusters with the precision and fuel-efficiency of electrical thrusters. This innovation opens up new possibilities for small satellites, enabling them to perform a wide range of maneuvers and missions. The key to this system is a special propellant that can power both chemical and electrical thrusters, eliminating the need for separate, bulky fuel sources.
The research, led by Amelia Bruno and Paulo Lozano, showcases the potential of a "green monopropellant" called ASCENT, originally developed by the U.S. Air Force. ASCENT, an ionic liquid propellant, has proven to be effective in fueling electrospray thrusters, which are dime-sized rockets that use electric fields to generate thrust. This development allows small satellites to perform both fast, powerful maneuvers and slower, precise adjustments, depending on the mission requirements.
The team's findings, published in the Journal of Propulsion and Power, demonstrate that ASCENT can provide similar performance to conventional ionic liquids in propelling electric thrusters. This breakthrough enables the creation of a compact, two-in-one propulsion system that can fit within a small CubeSat. The Green Propulsion Dual Mode mission, scheduled for launch in November, will be the first to test this innovative propulsion system.
This technology has significant implications for small spacecraft, making it possible to explore beyond Earth's orbit. It also offers flexibility for missions closer to home, such as weather and climate observations. The ability to switch between fast and slow maneuvers depending on the observation needs is a game-changer for satellite missions.
The research is supported by NASA and has the potential to revolutionize satellite propulsion, making it more efficient, versatile, and cost-effective. As the team continues to refine the system, the future of small satellite missions looks brighter than ever.
